The legend had been on a strike. A controversial decision from Cristiano Ronaldo had left Al-Nassr without him during a crucial phase of the season. It was another critical encounter last evening as The Knights of Najd travelled to Hofuf for the 21st game of the RSL against Al-Fateh.
Al-Hilal, the leaders had already secured a fine win against Al-Ettifaq, putting further pressure on Al-Nassr to get a win and stay close to Al-Hilal. Cristiano Ronaldo was in the line-up after being absent for 3 games ( two in the RSL and one in the AFC), in a much needed boost for Al-Nassr.
Sadio Mané, who has been brilliant for Al-Nassr and put up a terrific show in the absence of the great Portuguese, set up the first goal again with an incredible pass to Ronaldo in the centre, who put Al-Nassr ahead with the coolest of finishes early in the first half.
Al-Fateh, playing at home, were not to be intimidated by the yellow brigade. They played well, but were denied by Bento, who made several saves for Al-Nassr and kept a clean sheet. In the second half, Ayman Yahya, who came on as a substitute, struck an absolute ripper from a Kingsley Coman pass to settle the match in an emphatic 2-0 scoreline.
Al-Nassr scored their 7th straight win in the RSL on the bounce, and though Ronaldo was absent in two of them, the knights did not let their guard down, which speaks volumes for the team and also the coaching staff led by Manager Jorge Jesus.
Ronaldo looked happier on the pitch than off it, and though no player is indispensable ( which Ronaldo would have known by now), the mere presence of the great player surely makes a difference. Hopefully, with matters settled between Ronaldo and the owners, Al-Nassr can now launch a series effort in winning the title, which has been eluding them for long.
Let’s give Sadio Mané his due as well. What a servant of the sport he has been.
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